The Sarah Long Bridge in Portsmouth has been permanently closed to vehicular traffic, transportation officials announced Wednesday.

A mechanical failure of the bridge's lift system led to the decision. Engineers raised the south end of the bridge early Monday morning to accommodate marine traffic and it became stuck in the "up" position, according to officials. Attempts to lower the bridge failed.

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The 76-year-old bridge, which connects Portsmouth and Kittery, Maine, was closed to motorists on Monday and Tuesday. Engineers from NHDOT and MaineDOT examined the bridge and determined that it was "not safe for routine operation."

Officials estimated that repairs would cost upward of $1,000,000 over a six-week period.

The bridge was already set to close in November to make way for construction on the new Sarah Mildred Long Bridge, which is slated to open in September 2017.

Detours are in place for motorists. The bridge will remain open for marine traffic.